What to know about lawsuits involving the 2015 Honda CR-V

There isn’t one single, current nationwide lawsuit aimed only at the 2015 Honda CR-V; rather, legal action has centered on two fronts: class-action claims alleging excessive vibration in the 2015 model, and inclusion of certain 2015 CR-Vs in the broader Takata airbag multidistrict litigation, which led to a court-approved settlement for economic losses. Below is a clear breakdown of what those cases alleged, what Honda did, and what it means for owners today.

Why the 2015 CR-V drew legal scrutiny

The redesigned 2015 Honda CR-V introduced a 2.4-liter “Earth Dreams” engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Soon after launch, owners reported strong vibrations at idle and low speeds, prompting technical service bulletins and, eventually, class-action filings. Separately, certain 2015 CR-Vs were swept into the industrywide Takata airbag litigation because of potentially defective inflators used across many automakers, including Honda.

The “excessive vibration” lawsuits

Multiple putative class-action lawsuits were filed in 2015–2016 alleging that the 2015 CR-V suffers from a design defect causing excessive noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), especially at idle in Drive and during low-speed acceleration. Plaintiffs argued the issue diminished value and could be distracting or uncomfortable to drive. Honda, for its part, issued technical service bulletins (TSBs) and offered hardware and software updates intended to lessen the sensation rather than recalling the vehicles.

What owners and lawsuits said

The core allegations focused on the driving experience and the adequacy of Honda’s remedies. Here are the issues that complaints and suits commonly described.

• Pronounced vibration at idle when the transmission is in Drive (often more noticeable with air conditioning on).
• Shudder or buzz felt through the steering wheel, seat, and floor at low speeds.
• Claims that fixes (revised engine mounts, subframe weights, and software updates) reduced but did not eliminate the condition.
• Economic loss assertions, including diminished resale value and out-of-pocket costs.

These allegations framed the litigation narrative: owners argued the vibration was a defect, while Honda characterized it as a characteristic of the powertrain that could be mitigated by updates.

Honda’s response and current status

Honda issued service guidance and updates, including powertrain control software changes and hardware kits, to reduce NVH. Some owners reported meaningful improvement; others said the vibration persisted. As of 2025, there is no widely publicized, nationwide class-action settlement specific solely to the 2015 CR-V vibration claims. Outcomes have varied by case and jurisdiction, with some matters resolved individually or procedurally narrowed. Owners still experiencing vibration should consult a dealer for any outstanding TSB-related updates and consider local legal advice if seeking individual remedies.

The Takata airbag litigation that included certain 2015 CR-Vs

Separately from the vibration issue, a portion of 2015 CR-Vs fell under the umbrella of the Takata airbag defect litigation, one of the largest automotive defect cases in U.S. history. The litigation—In re: Takata Airbag Products Liability Litigation (MDL No. 2599) in the Southern District of Florida—involved numerous automakers, including Honda, and addressed economic loss and recall-related relief for affected vehicles.

What the Takata case meant for 2015 CR-V owners

The Takata litigation dealt with inflators that could rupture and propel metal fragments, leading to a global recall campaign and economic-loss settlements. Not every 2015 CR-V was affected, but those within specific build ranges were included in recalls and settlement relief.

Key elements of the Honda-related Takata settlement as it affected eligible model years included the following.

• Economic loss benefits such as reimbursement for certain out-of-pocket costs and residual distributions related to recall inconveniences.
• Customer support programs (e.g., rental/loaner vehicles during recall repairs in some circumstances).
• Funding for outreach to improve recall completion rates.

Because deadlines and eligibility windows were set by the court and the settlement administrator, owners should check the status of claims and benefits via the settlement site or administrator. Even if claim periods have closed, recall repairs remain free, and safety recalls do not expire.

How to check if your 2015 CR-V was affected

To determine recall status or eligibility for past settlement programs, take the following steps.

• Run your VIN at NHTSA’s recall lookup: https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
• Check Honda’s recall portal: https://owners.honda.com/service-maintenance/recalls
• If exploring Takata settlement information, review details at the administrator’s website linked from the MDL court notices or via NHTSA recall pages.

These checks will confirm whether your specific vehicle was subject to Takata recalls and whether any actions remain outstanding.

What owners can do now

If you own a 2015 CR-V and have concerns related to vibration or airbags, the following actions can help you address safety and comfort while documenting any costs.

Consider these practical steps.

• Schedule a dealer inspection to apply any TSB updates for NVH reduction if not already performed.
• Document symptoms (photos, video, service invoices) if vibration persists after updates.
• Verify completion of all safety recalls using your VIN and arrange free recall repairs if needed.
• Consult local consumer-protection resources or an attorney if pursuing individual claims for persistent issues.

Taking these steps helps ensure your vehicle is up to date on safety actions and that you have a record if you decide to seek further remedies.

Bottom line

The 2015 Honda CR-V has been the subject of class-action allegations over excessive vibration, but there is no broad, nationwide settlement in effect that is specific to that issue alone as of 2025. Separately, some 2015 CR-Vs were included in the Takata airbag multidistrict litigation, which resulted in a court-approved economic-loss settlement and extensive recall campaigns. Owners should check VIN-specific recall status, make sure all updates are installed, and consider individual options if problems persist.

Summary

There isn’t a single, active nationwide lawsuit targeted only at the 2015 Honda CR-V. Legal actions primarily involved: (1) class-action claims alleging a vibration defect in the 2015 model year—without a widely publicized nationwide settlement specific to that issue—and (2) inclusion of certain 2015 CR-Vs in the Takata airbag MDL, which produced an economic-loss settlement and ongoing recall repairs. Confirm your vehicle’s status using your VIN, apply any service updates, and seek individualized advice if needed.

What is the recall on the 2015 Honda CR-V?

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Honda CR-V vehicles that recently received a replacement engine. The replacement engine may have been built with the wrong pistons, potentially affecting the engine’s performance.

What is the Honda vibration settlement 2015?

A settlement has been reached in a Honda class action lawsuit, providing relief and repairs to the owners and lessees of 2015 Honda CR-V vehicles who experienced a vibration defect. The award for the Honda CR-V settlement is not monetary.

What is the class action lawsuit for Honda CR-V 2015?

In July 2015, our attorneys filed a proposed class action lawsuit on behalf of 2015 Honda CR-V drivers who complained of unpleasant vibration in their vehicles. Our law firm was appointed Class Counsel on behalf of the vehicle owners.

What is the class action lawsuit for the Honda CR-V?

There is no single active Honda CR-V class action lawsuit, but rather several past and current lawsuits alleging various defects in different CR-V model years, including engine issues like oil dilution in 1.5L turbo engines and problems with the Honda Sensing system’s automatic braking. Another potential issue involves internal engine component failures and oil dilution in 2018-2022 models. Owners who believe their vehicle has a defect should review details of the specific lawsuit related to their vehicle’s model year and symptoms to determine eligibility. 
Key Lawsuits and Alleged Defects

• Engine Issues (2018-2022 CR-Vs): . Opens in new tabLawsuits claim 1.5L turbocharged engines in 2018-2022 CR-Vs (and other Honda models) suffer from oil dilution due to fuel contamination. This can lead to increased oil levels, increased oil consumption, and accelerated engine wear. 
• Engine Issues (General): . Opens in new tabSome class actions allege broader internal engine defects, including oil dilution, fuel system malfunctions, or timing chain failures. 
• Honda Sensing System (2017 CR-Vs): . Opens in new tabA lawsuit was filed alleging a defect in the 2017 Honda CR-V’s Honda Sensing system. The system’s automatic braking function was found to activate suddenly without a clear reason, posing a safety hazard. 

How to Find Out If You’re Eligible

1. 1. Identify Your Vehicle’s Model Year: Check your CR-V’s model year to see if it matches the affected vehicles in a specific class action lawsuit. 
2. 2. Determine Your Vehicle’s Symptoms: Check if your symptoms (e.g., rough idling, engine stalling, automatic braking issues) align with the defects alleged in any of the lawsuits. 
3. 3. Check for Official Notices: Check your email or physical mail for official notices from the court, settlement administrator, or attorneys involved in a relevant lawsuit. 
4. 4. Consult with a Legal Professional: If you believe your vehicle is affected, contact a class action lawyer specializing in consumer protection or auto defects to determine your eligibility and options. 

What To Do if Your Vehicle Is Affected

• Gather Documentation: Collect records of all repairs, including the dates and any communication with dealerships or Honda. 
• Consider Legal Counsel: Speak with a qualified attorney who can advise you on joining the lawsuit or pursuing a claim. 
• Stay Informed: Keep track of the lawsuit’s status through legal websites like TopClassActions.com and official court documents, as you may receive notices about claim procedures and potential benefits if the lawsuit is successful.